Pitt & Sherry consultant Hugh Saddler said continuing rise in national electricity emissions was largely due to Australia’s ongoing use of coal-fired power stations.

“The Australian government has made a commitment to reduce the country’s emissions by 26 to 28 per cent by 2030 from 2005 levels, but without significant policy change, it is difficult to see how this will come about,” he said.

“Australia is still largely dependent on coal for its electricity supply and assuming electricity demand continues to rise, Australia’s carbon emissions will continue to rise, given that electricity emissions make up around one third of the country’s total emissions.

“While some changes may occur in the market such as new renewable energy development and improved hydro generation, it is likely the current scenario will continue for at least the next six months, and Australia will continue to rely increasingly on coal-fired power stations for its electricity supply.”